Issue 89 - Fashion Invasion

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Fashion Invasion

Named after the country's iconic footballer, George Best Belfast City is the smaller of the Northern Irish capital's two airports.

Flying to mainly United Kingdom and Irish destinations, this modest-sized, but fast-growing airport has recently undergone a £6 million revamp, opening a new selection of terminal shops, restaurants and bars this May.

At the centre of the action is a large 2,000 square-foot flagship store from World Duty Free (WDF), which boasts several luxury fashion brands never seen before at the airport, including Versace, Guerlain, Hermes and Cartier. And after having successfully applied for a liquor licence, WDF is able to sell spirits, wines and beers at the airport for the first time (although curiously, local regulations require the area to be gated off from the rest of the shop).

As you might expect, Irish whiskeys are very much at the forefront of the new shop's spirits offer. Several references from local single malt brand, Bushmills make an appearance, including Bushmills 10 Years Old at £27.79, and for just a few pounds extra, Bushmills 16 Years Old at £30.59. Hailing from south of the border, the Republic's best-selling whiskey by a country mile, Jameson, is also well represented. High-end offerings here include the sublimely smooth Rarest Vintage Reserve at £202, and Jameson 18 Years Old at £62.99.

Other recommended Irish whiskeys listed include Midleton Very Rare (£86.99) and the powerful yet smooth Jameson Red Breast, a real treat for ...